Premier Smith Announces Monday’s Back-to-Work Bill for Alberta Teachers’ Strike

Premier Danielle Smith has set a deadline for addressing the ongoing Alberta teachers’ strike, which has now entered its third week. On October 23, 2025, thousands of teachers and supporters gathered outside the Alberta legislature, protesting against the government’s handling of the situation. Smith announced that if negotiations do not yield results by Monday, her government plans to introduce back-to-work legislation.

Smith Addresses Teachers’ Strike

Speaking at a press conference, Premier Smith expressed concern over the impact of the strike on students and families. “This situation has become intolerable,” she stated. To resolve the issue, Smith is urging both parties to reach an agreement at the bargaining table.

Details of the Back-to-Work Bill

• The Alberta government plans to introduce the “Back to School Act.”
• The bill will amend debate rules to facilitate quick passage through the legislature.
• Government House Leader Joseph Schow indicated procedural groundwork is already in place for the bill.

Despite the government’s readiness to legislate, no formal talks are scheduled between the Alberta Teachers’ Association and the province. Teachers have been on strike since October 6, and their actions currently affect 51,000 teachers and 750,000 students across various school systems in Alberta.

Protest Activities and Public Sentiment

During the protest, attendees dressed in red displayed signs voicing their concerns. One child held a sign that read, “I care about my teacher,” while others criticized the government’s approach. Notably, the protest included symbolic gestures, such as the placement of russet potatoes at the legislative steps, referencing Smith’s earlier remark about flexibility in negotiations.

Wages and Classroom Conditions

Teachers are particularly dissatisfied with the government’s wage proposal, which includes a 12% increase over four years. They demand more comprehensive measures to reduce classroom overcrowding and better support for students with special needs. Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides has not set a timeline for when students might return to class, indicating uncertainty about the situation’s resolution.

Political Reactions

Opposition NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi criticized the back-to-work legislation as an abuse of power. He argued that it undermines the rights of teachers and the educational system. Furthermore, teachers’ association president Jason Schilling denounced the lack of respect for their voices in the legislative process.

This ongoing saga underscores a significant conflict in Alberta regarding education policy, wage negotiations, and the role of government in labor disputes. As the deadline approaches, the pressure mounts on both teachers and the government to reach a resolution that addresses the needs of Alberta’s educators and students.